Talking peace in Jeddah: India offers a new perspective

Source: The post is based on the article “Talking peace in Jeddah: India offers a new perspective” published in “Business Standard” on 9th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

News: In this article author discusses a peace summit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where countries addressed the Ukrainian crisis. It highlights the growing global influence of non-Western nations, Russia’s isolation, China’s role in a potential solution, and India’s stance on territorial integrity.

What were diplomatic developments at peace summit at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia?

Diplomatic developments at the Jeddah peace summit included:

Hosting by Saudi Arabia: It highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing influence, especially after making peace with Iran through China’s interventions.

US and China Attendance: Both countries, having differing views on the Ukrainian crisis, were present.

Russia’s Isolation: It was depicted in the reduced attendance at the Russia-Africa summit, held last month, compared to previous years.

China’s Position: Despite its previous 12-point charter, China signaled its intention to play a key role in a Russia-Ukraine settlement.

What role did India play at this peace summit?

Balanced Approach: India refrained from criticizing Russia in UN resolutions.

Preference for Dialogue: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval emphasized dialogue as a solution to belligerence.

Territorial Integrity: Doval stressed the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity by all nations.

Implicit Message to China: Doval’s emphasis on territorial boundaries was likely directed at China, given their border disputes.